This summer – save money and our special environment

I hope everyone across High Peak enjoyed the recent bank holiday weekend and made the most of the gorgeous weather we had. Whether you were out walking, visiting friends and family or enjoying our beautiful countryside, it was fantastic to see so many people making the most of everything our area has to offer.

But with warmer weather also comes extra responsibilities to stay safe and protecting our local environment.

Over the bank holiday weekend, Harpur Hill Quarry – commonly known as the “Blue Lagoon” – once again attracted large numbers of visitors. Videos on TikTok and social media often compare it to the Maldives because of its bright blue appearance, but the reality is very different, and people should not be fooled by online trends.

The water in the quarry is extremely dangerous. Its pH level has previously been compared to bleach, meaning it can cause serious harm to people who enter it. What might look appealing in photographs or short videos is, in reality, a hazardous former quarry site that poses real risks to health and safety.

Alongside those safety concerns, local residents continue to report issues with anti-social behaviour, trespassing, littering and disruption in the surrounding area.

Following concerns raised with me by residents, I contacted High Peak Borough Council, and I am pleased they have confirmed that dye has been ordered for the quarry in an attempt to discourage people from falling foul of another TikTok trend.

The hot weather also brings a serious wildfire risk across High Peak. Our constituency is the most vulnerable area in the country for wildfires because of our moorland and dry countryside. It only takes one careless moment for enormous damage to be caused.

Please avoid open flames such as cigarettes or lighters near dry grassland. Even something as simple as discarded glass bottles can start fires in hot weather.

One of the biggest causes of wildfires remains disposable BBQs. They are a total menace, and I wouldn’t mind but they don’t even cook that well. I have written to all the local retailers asking them not to sell disposable BBQs and I’ll continue to campaign for a wider ban.

Last week, I also spent time with the RSPCA who reminded me how dangerous hot weather can be for animals too. If you would not want to walk outside in a heavy coat with bare feet on hot pavements, your dog probably does not want to go on a walk either. Please avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day and never leave animals in hot cars, even for a short period.

High Peak is a wonderful place to enjoy during the summer. Let’s all do our bit to keep it safe, clean and protected for everyone.

Finally, on a more positive note, this summer Labour is helping families across High Peak keep more money in their pockets while making the most of the school holidays. Through the Government’s new “Great British Summer Savings” package, children aged 5 to 15 will be able to travel free on most buses, making it easier and more affordable for families to get out and about. And from 25 June until 1 September, VAT will be reduced to just 5% on a range of family-friendly activities, including children’s meals, cinema and theatre tickets, and attractions such as soft play centres, adventure parks and theme parks. At a time when many households are still feeling the pressure of rising costs, these measures will help families enjoy a well-earned summer break without breaking the bank.